How to Choose Antifreeze |

Antifreeze

With the arrival of colder days, drivers are reminded to check the antifreeze in the refrigerator. There are many different types of antifreeze on the market, so many are in a dilemma as to which one to pour - red, blue, or green antifreeze? G11 or G12? Solution or concentrate?

Antifreeze is used in the car in the cooling system. It allows to lower the freezing point and increase the boiling point of water in the cooling system. In addition, it prevents corrosion of the metal parts of the engine and radiator, so it is very important that antifreeze is in the system throughout the year, not just in winter.

Which antifreeze to pour?

Buyers of new cars do not have to worry about choosing antifreeze, because they are obliged to maintain the car with an official repairer, who takes care of it. That's why drivers of slightly older cars are in a big dilemma - which antifreeze to pour?

The choice of antifreeze can be best assisted by an authorized service center or service booklet. Here you can see what characteristics the antifreeze for your car should have.

We have adopted VW antifreeze labels, so antifreezes with G11, G12, G12 + mogu markings can be found on the market. For newer cars with aluminum coolers, it is best to use antifreeze with G12 or G12 + markings. They usually change every 5 years.

Cars about ten years and older, mostly have steel fridges. Such cars use classic monoethylene glycol based antifreezes, which change every 2 years. There are also those with different additives, which change every 3 years. They usually carry the tagG11.

Antifreeze replacement period

Of the above conditions, what matters on the package of antifreeze itself is more important. Generally, there are 3 types:

1. IAT - classic antifreeze. They change every 2 years.
2. HOAT - changes to 3 years.
3. OAT - changes to 5 years.

It is very important that you observe the replacement period, as the antifreeze has anti-corrosion properties and thus protects the engine and radiator. The coolant should be replaced earlier even when its freezing temperature rises. You can check this with a device that you can get at auto cosmetics stores for a little while. I can check this for you at a service station or even at a gas station.

Topping and replacing antifreeze

If you are not sure what antifreeze is in refrigerator your car, it is best to completely change the coolant. Drain the old antifreeze, flush the system with water and pour in new coolant. Mixing several types of antifreeze can lead to its thickening and loss of properties. Never add clean antifreeze or clean water; always pour the mixture in a ratio of 50:50, or 60:40. Make the mixture with distilled water, never with "tap water", because it can create limescale deposits and clog the system. There are also antifreezes that are not concentrates, but are sold as a mixture that is just poured, without the need for dilution.

Never without antifreeze

The most important thing is not to run out of coolant in the system as this can cause permanent damage to the engine. If you notice that the liquid is below the minimum, you need to top up with at least some clean water. In this case, visit a service center to have your coolant change for the first time.

Source: www.auto-delovi.org

Mladen

Hi there, I am Mladen and I am an auto enthusiast. I started this blog years ago to help like minded people share information about latest cars, car servicing ideas, used car info, exotic cars, and auto technology. You will find helpful articles and videos on a wide variety of cars - Audi, Mercedes, Toyota, Porsche, Volvo, BMW and much more. Ping us if you have anything cool to share on latest cars or on how to make older cars more efficient, or just want to say hi!